UNLV’s Oda wins golf tournament in Florida

UNLV freshman John Oda won his first career golf tournament, shooting a 3-under par 67 for a two-stroke victory Tuesday in the Sea Best Invitational in Ponte Vedra Beach, Fla.

His 67 was the only score below par at TPC Sawgrass’ Dye’s Valley Course, allowing Oda to rally from four shots back when the final round began. He finished at even-par 210 in the 54-hole tournament, beating out Florida’s AJ Crouch, who shot a 73 in the final round.

“My goal today was to not make any bogeys and to just play consistent,” Oda said. “I was able to make four birdies and one bogey. Overall, my ball striking was good and I putted great today. It is an awesome feeling.”

He is the second Rebel to win this season. Sophomore Taylor Montgomery won the Gene Miranda Falcon Invitational in September at Colorado Springs, Colo.

UNLV finished third as a team at the Sea Best, shooting a 42-over 882. The Rebels had the low final round with an 8-over 288.

North Carolina, with a 33-over 873, won the event.